Bruises, scrapes and cuts are a part of everyone’s childhood – no matter how hard parents try to keep their children safe.

Instead of frantically searching your purse for a bandage after an injury occurs, you can prepare a first aid kit ahead of time. It’s easy and cost effective.

First aid kits are available in stores, however they typically contain only a sampling of items. After only a few uses, these sets need to be replaced or restocked.

Multiple packs for your home, car and diaper bag ensure you are covered for emergencies anywhere. Making your own may cost more initially, but the extra supplies will be used to restock for years to come.

Consider including the following items:

• Containers: reuse old purses, lunch sacks, toiletry bags or plastic containers with
lids – anything that is compact, secure and stores well.
• Bandages: include different types (such as butterfly) and store them in closeable
bags according to shape and size.
• Antiseptic Ointment: comes in handy when a wound cannot be fully washed.
• Scissors: look for medical scissors that cut cloth easily.
• Gauze: larger sizes can be cut down to fit the wound.
• Tape: white cloth tape is easy to tear.
• Latex Gloves: for situations involving the treatment of children who may not be your
own.
• Tweezers: essential tool for removing slivers, insect stingers and debris from a wound.
• Tongue Depressors: used to check sore throats and to make splints.
• Thermometer: accurate digitals can be purchased cheaply.
• Medications: examples are acetaminophen and ibuprofen drops, anti-itch cream, an
antihistamine for allergies, and analgesic cream and doctor prescribed medications.
• Mini-Flashlight: to help mend wounds in the dark and for seeing down throats.
• Instant Cold Pack: these are bulky, but if you have extra space, think about adding
one or two of these.
• Phone Numbers: add a card with important numbers such as your emergency contacts and
poison control (1-800-222-1222).

Remember to check your supplies regularly for expired contents and items needing to be restocked. If you take your first aid kit on a plane, remember to include it in your checked luggage. Some items may not be allowed with your carry on.

With a little effort, you can feel safe knowing the correct first aid items will always be on hand, no matter where you are.